Fundraising & Donations

Why do schools ask for donations?

The truth is, the overhead of running a school is quite large. From faculty and staff salaries (which often accounts for a majority of school expenses) to facility maintenance and operations and daily supplies, the cash flow out can be staggering. Schools also offset their tuition for families who can’t afford the full cost with financial aid. This is often funded by operating budgets, which is the result of charitable donations.  

Here at DMS we realize that family circumstances vary greatly. We strive to keep our tuition prices reasonable compared to other local private institutions, and trust our families to value the quality of education we provide. We ask you to give to the greatest extent you are able so that we may continue to provide the best education for our students. Your contribution is an investment in the lives of every student here at DMS.

Here’s a snapshot of the cost of educating a student at Desert Montessori School:  

$1,145,136 (operating expenses) ÷ 72 students (current enrollment)

= $15,904.67 Cost of Education per Student 
Our tuition ranges from $8,550 (with robust tuition assistance) to $15,435. This means we rely on fundraising to make up the remaining $7,354.67 to $496.67 per student. Are you able to help make up these costs? Donate in the donation box on the right side of this page today!

Desert Montessori School is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit, EIN 85-0423730. All donations are deemed tax deductible absent any limitations on deductibility applicable to a particular taxpayer. No goods or services were provided in exchange for your contribution.

A successful Annual Campaign along with other fundraising initiatives such as grants and community events ensure that there are adequate resources every year to enhance and sustain what makes Desert Montessori truly exceptional.  

Every contribution, no matter the size, has a meaningful impact. Our goal for the 2025-2026 School Year is to reach $20,000 with our Annual Campaign through tax-deductible donations.

If you feel moved to do so, please make a donation below, and please also keep your eyes out for other ways to donate throughout the year, including our Fall Festival, Silent Auction & Gala, and more.